Remember the infamous Summer of the Shark attacks in 2001 that was highlighted by Jesse Arbogast (the 8 year old that lost his arm and leg to a shark in Florida )? Of course you do. Stories of shark attacks dominated the news. In reality the number of attacks were down for the second year in a row. Let’s chalk that one up to a pre-9/11 slow news time and the power of media hype.

I have to wonder how much the media has led to the mass hysteria of the “current economic situation.” I am not naive enough to think or suggest that the media has caused it, but I am certainly questioning the level of craze that has been passed along to consumers.

Another trip down memory lane. Remember the way the country banded together after the terrorist attacks on 9/11? Americans proved they have the motivation to think positively and unite. Let’s band together to fight this! Let’s show our optimism and perseverance!

I am thrilled with Pepsi’s new “Refresh Everything” message to America. The campaign launched in Times Square on New Year’s Eve and the timing couldn’t be better. At the beginning of a new year, we are all in a mindset that is open to change and a fresh start. Check it out and give Pepsi some props for inspiration!

I have always been known as an optimist, a Positive Polly as a matter of fact. So far, it has served me well. Instead of drowning in the bad, I learn and move on. Let’s learn from where we have been in 2008. For example, I have gained some great things from the recession: an appreciation of family and the basics in life, new perspective, and artistic inspiration. What tops your list?

So, let’s motivate! Get out of those baggy sweatsuits, put on some make-up, lift the fog, and show everyone what you’re made of!

Just for the record, I am more than happy to address the nation via live telecast to start the optimism movement — just give me the venue. After all, I did lead my 2005 Kick-Ball Team to a State Championship victory after an unforgettable (and in my opinion award-winning) speech to the team about a “group of underdog thirty-somethings finding their calling within the realm of intramural kick-ball.”